LESSONS FOR THE LONG RUN How best to ensure a long life? You're probably familiar with the traditional recipes: Vigorous exercise, married life and a healthy balance of work and play, among other ingredients, help us stay young. But in a new book, "The Longevity Project," university professors Howard S. Friedman and Leslie R. Martin explain why many of these common beliefs are "ill-advised or simply wrong." Analyzing data collected from a starting group of 1,500 individuals over the course of 80 years, the authors explain why a host of factors—including "persistence, prudence…and close involvement with friends and communities"—can improve health and longevity. An absorbing and invaluable read.
To learn more, search on "longevity project" at penguingroup.com.
A CLASS ON CLASS One of the most important, and least-understood, parts of the health-care overhaul is the Class Act: Community Living Assistance Services and Supports. This program would allow workers age 18 and older to buy insurance from the federal government to help cover the cost of long-term care. The Health and Human Services Department has until October 2012 to set premiums, but Republicans and Democrats alike already are questioning the program's value. The Urban Institute, a Washington D.C., think tank, has produced a clear and concise (eight-minute) video that explains the Class program and the challenges that lie ahead. A good way to begin educating yourself about what's certain to be a crucial debate—and one that could have a big impact on your wallet.
To learn more, search on "Class Act Howard Gleckman" at urban.org .